It took a while for Manchester City to show much interest in progressing to
the quarter-finals of the Capital One Cup but when it came, it came with
cruel intent. Extra time was required for Newcastle United to be teased,
infused with hope then disposed of, and some moments of trepidation were
endured, but even with a shadow team Manuel Pellegrini possesses a
glittering array of talent coupled with a ruthlessness that the very best
can harness.

Pellegrini made ten changes to the side who had lost 2-1 away to Chelsea —
with Joe Hart perhaps the most interesting absentee — but